Kuwait city: The US has imposed sanctions on 21 entities and 17 individuals involved in networks that facilitate the acquisition of sensitive goods and technology for Iran.
According to Kuwait News Agency, the U.S. Department of the Treasury stated that its Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) is designating these entities and individuals due to their involvement in networks aiding Iran's Ministry of Defense and Armed Forces Logistics (MODAFL). These networks are linked to Iran's missile and military aircraft production efforts, including the procurement of technology for advanced surface-to-air missile systems and the illicit purchase of a U.S.-manufactured helicopter.
The Department emphasized that Iran's ballistic missile and conventional weapons capabilities, supported by the recently designated networks, pose significant threats to U.S. service members in the Middle East, U.S. commercial ships navigating international waters, and civilians. Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent highlighted the Iranian regime's support of terrorist proxies and its pursuit of nuclear weapons as threats to the security of the Middle East, the United States, and allies worldwide.
Bessent reiterated that, under President Trump's leadership, efforts will continue to deny the Iranian regime weapons that could further its objectives. This action aligns with the September 27 reimposition of U.N. sanctions on Iran, requiring all U.N. Member States to implement swiftly restrictions on Iran's nuclear, missile, and arms programs, which include arms embargoes, export controls, travel bans, and asset freezes.
Bessent noted that the "snapback" of U.N. restrictions is a direct response to Iran's significant non-performance of its nuclear commitments under the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action. This Security Council decision underscores the international community's commitment to safeguarding the global nonproliferation regime against Iranian threats and nuclear escalation.